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James M. Ware Jr., Sussex Motors owner

August 20, 2013

James Melvin Ware Jr., 72, of Georgetown, passed away at Beebe Medical Center, Lewes, surrounded by his family Sunday, Aug. 18, 2013.

Born in Baltimore, Md. July 14, 1941, he was the son of the late James Melvin Ware Sr., and his mother, Virginia Lee Ware, who survives him.  He was married April 24, 1982, to Janet Lee Parker. Melvin was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He owned and operated Ware’s Service Center and Sussex Motors.  He was a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Laurel.  His favorite pastime was fishing; he was an avid bowler, and had the magic touch with cars.

Melvin was dedicated to his family, was kind, and above all else, thoughtful. He was a soft spoken man with the patience of Job, and would help anyone at any time.

In addition to his mother and wife, he is survived by his children: Wendy Ware (Dan) of Milton, Wanda Wisseman (Tommy) of Greenwood, Wesley Ware (Desiree) of Millsboro; stepchildren: Shelly O’Connell (Kevin), of Martinez, Calif., Shari Bennett (Jeff), of Wilmington, and R. Brett Ryan (Alison) of Georgetown.  Melvin has two sisters: Virginia L. Short of Ellendale and Isabel Riffenburg (Frank) of Georgetown.  He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren:  D.J. and Casey Ware; T.J. and Ronnie Wisseman; Lindsey Ware; Ryan and Kyle Robinson; Sara Brooks; Karly O’Connell; Paige Bennett; Claire Bennett; Barrett Ryan; Andrew Ryan; and Matthew Ryan.  Also surviving, two great-grandchildren: Paxton and Bentley Wisseman; and several nieces nephews, extended family members and friends.  He had two beloved dogs: Biscuit and Baxter.

A funeral service and celebration of Melvin’s life will be held at  Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, at 1 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 22, where friends may call from 11 a.m. till 1 p.m. for viewing and visitation. Interment follows at Millsboro Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to St. Paul’s UMC, 32827 Old Stage Road, Laurel, DE 19956.

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